You’ve just done a load of laundry, folded the towels, and then—there it is. That faint, sour smell that just won’t go away. If your clean towels still smell less than fresh, you’re not imagining it. Over time, even the best towels can hang onto odors. The good news? There’s a way to bring them back.

In this post, we’ll explain why towels tend to develop unpleasant smells and walk you through how to refresh stinky towels using simple methods that actually work.

What Causes Towels to Smell?   

Towels can hold onto moisture long after they’ve been used or washed, and that dampness creates the perfect environment for bacteria and mildew to grow. But that’s not the only culprit.

Why Do Towels Smell Even After Washing?

There are a few reasons towels can hang on to unpleasant odors:

• Too much detergent or softener can leave behind buildup that traps smells instead of removing them.
• Hard water minerals may settle into the fibers, making towels feel rough and smell stale over time.
• Not drying towels completely—whether after use or after a wash—can lead to mildew and a musty odor.

How to Refresh Stinky Towels at Home   

Before replacing all your towels, try this easy method that many swear by. You only need two things from your pantry: white vinegar and baking soda. 

Step 1: Wash with White Vinegar    

Place the towels in your washing machine and run a hot water cycle with no detergent. Add one cup of white vinegar directly to the drum. Vinegar dissolves buildup and eliminates bacteria that cause odor.

Step 2: Follow with Baking Soda    

Next, run a second hot cycle using half a cup of baking soda (skip the detergent). Baking soda works well to absorb leftover odors and gently break down any residue that may still be clinging to the fabric.

Step 3: Dry Thoroughly  

After washing, be sure your towels are completely dry before putting them away. Towels that stay damp for too long can quickly start to smell again. If possible, hang them outside in the sun, which naturally helps freshen fabric and kill odor-causing bacteria.

Ongoing Habits to Keep Towels Smelling Clean   

Once your towels are back to smelling clean, a few simple changes can help prevent odor from returning:

• Skip the fabric softener: It coats fibers and reduces absorbency. Try dryer balls instead if you want fluffier towels.
• Wash towels regularly: Aim to wash them every three to four uses.
• Hang towels to dry properly: After each use, make sure towels are spread out so they dry evenly.
• Keep laundry loads smaller: This helps your washer do a better job rinsing and cleaning each item.
• Use the right amount of detergent: Too much can backfire by leaving buildup behind.

Still Smell Something? Let Us Help   

Still noticing a lingering smell after all your efforts? Some towels need more than a home wash. At Fox Cleaners, we use professional cleaning methods designed to reach deep into the fabric and remove what regular machines can’t. From bath towels to beach towels and everything in between, we’ll help bring back their original softness and freshness.

Visit our Tulsa location. And if you’re short on time, our pickup and delivery service makes it easy to keep your home stocked with clean, ready-to-use linens.